I have a wide interest in parasite/host relations and focus in particular on the biology of monogenean (flatworm) parasites of fishes. I study parasite attachment, feeding, functional morphology of the reproductive system, host finding and other aspects of parasite behaviour. Much of my research career has been spent unravelling the relationship between the capsalid monogenean skin parasite Entobdella soleae and its host the common sole (Solea solea). Consequently E. soleae is now better known than any other monogenean and in recent years, in collaboration with Dr Ian Whittington (Adelaide, Australia), I have undertaken a major taxonomic revision of Entobdella that has led to descriptions of new species and creation of new genera.
Current Research Projects
- Descriptions of new species of capsalid and microbothriid monogeneans from the skin of Australian stingrays and rays (with Ian Whittington, South Australian Museum and The University of Adelaide)
- The roles of self insemination and cross insemination in the reproductive biology of capsalid monogeneans (With Ian Whittington)
- Nanomechanics of the protein in the adhesive used by Entobdella soleae for temporary attachment of the head to the host (with Anika Mostaert, Nanoscale Function Group, University of Dublin)
- Research for a book on parasites.